My little cup 'o joe

I'm not really one of those die-hard coffee drinkers. I used to always claim that I was a social drinker (um, coffee drinker that is) and only drink my Tall Non-Fat Caramel Macchiato when on a visit to my favorite little chain. In fact, there are 2 Starbuckses within walking distance from my house which made the whole trip so much more charming. Stroll to the coffee shop with Lucca in tow, get her a cup of water while I'd sit with my chosen companion and sip my mocha or latte...

However, I couldn't help but notice that I started getting myself a cup of coffee every morning in the office. And whenever invited to a cup at a friend's place, I would always partake. And I was even stopping into coffee shops to *gasp* drink by myself! By myself! That's no longer a social drinker! **Lucca and her Starbucks, pic taken August '08 (with my cell phone!)

So why didn't I own a coffee maker at home? Well, for a couple reasons. There's just one of me, so I didn't want to be making a whole pot each time I wanted a cup. And with my KitchenAid, toaster oven, utensil crock, Cuisinart, wine rack, dish rack -- there's really no room in my 4 x 6 foot kitchen. So on a whim, while at BB&B I bought this. It seemed like the perfect solution to assist in my seemingly apparent coffee habit.

It's a bit silly how excited I am about my new French press coffee maker. I realize probably 90% of Americans wake up each morning to cups of fresh, hot, strong coffee in their own kitchens. But the idea was so novel to me. Gosh, what I've been missing!

I still don't seem to find the time on weekdays, but last weekend I broke out my packet of Vanilla Coffee I bought while in Zanzibar in December, and brewed myself a cup

Just had to share my happy little find with you all. I'd imagine a handful of "readers" don't live in large spaces either. Well I have a couple hints for you if you decide to buy a French Press or already own one you don't use much. This particular Bodum will make about 3 cups of coffee. I'm talking a mug, not a demitasse. Roughly 30 oz. It takes about 3-4 tablespoons of course coffee grounds per cup of coffee being brewed. So for instance, if I'm making only 1 cup of coffee for myself it goes like this:

• Boil around 1 ½ cups of water
• Put 3-4 T of course coffee grounds into the bottom of the press
• "Measure" the hot water by pouring it into the coffee mug I'm going to use
• Pour the water from the mug into the press
• Let steep for 4 minutes -- and enjoy!

I know, I did just write a "recipe" for coffee. What is going on?? Well, like I've said before - my blog is about whatever I want. And I'm enjoying this new contraption so you get to hear about it! If I help 1 person out by ridding them of their outdated, ugly, bulky old coffee maker to get a French press - it's worthwhile!